The fall 2014 semester brings a variety of non-credit and continued learning opportunities in aquatics, dance, and health/safety topics for students, UREC members, faculty/staff, and Arkansas Alumni Association members. Ballet Dance, Beginning Swim Lessons, and American Red Cross CPR/First Aid/AED Certification are just a few of the classes offered through the University Recreation department, housed in the HPER Building.

“UREC’s non-credit classes are a great way to learn a new skill or try something that you have always wanted to try”, said Katie Helms, assistant director of University Recreation. “These classes are for everybody, not just students.  Learning to swim or practicing your ballroom dancing skills are fun and beneficial at any age.” 

Dance classes offered through University Recreation include beginning-level Swing Dance, Ballet and Modern Dance, and Social Dance. 

“I’m really excited about this semester’s class because it combines the basic steps of east coast swing and lindy hop”, said Zach Kuntz, UREC swing dance instructor. “This Swing class focuses on how to confidently make these moves smooth and fluid while at the same time creating style.” 

Social Dance teaches participants the basics of a variety of popular ballroom styles, including waltz, tango, cha cha, and salsa. Both of these classes are open to all levels. Finally, Ballet and Modern Dance aim to increase strength, flexibility, and grace while learning basic dance techniques and choreography.  No prior knowledge or dance experience is required. Dance class sessions start September 9. For more information about these classes, please visit our website.

The aquatics program offerings include Beginning Swim Lessons for youth ages 5-12, as well as adults aged 13 and up. Beginner swim lessons are designed to introduce participants to aquatic environments and develop basic skills including floating, breathing, and basic locomotion. Beginning Swim Lesson sessions are Monday/Wednesday beginning Sept. 8 and ending Oct. 8. For more specific information including lesson times and cost, please visit our website. 

University Recreation also offers UREC members a coached stroke development and fitness swim clinic on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5:30–6:30 p.m. This assistance is useful for the swimmer who wants to hone their strokes and learn how to put together fitness-oriented swim workouts. There is no charge, and participation is on a drop-in basis. UREC staff will be available on the south end of the lap lane section to help you.

University Recreation continues its role as an American Red Cross Authorized Provider for CPR/First Aid/AED certification classes.  These classes can help students fulfill academic or employer requirements, and can also be packaged and brought to specific departments on campus. UREC will also offer an ACE Personal Fitness Trainer preparatory course for students or other individuals interested in obtaining a personal trainer certification with the American Council for Exercise. Please visit our website for further information regarding program dates and cost. 

UREC Non-Credit Instructional Programs are open to registration by students, UREC members, UA faculty/staff, and active Arkansas Alumni Association members. Online registration is now available for most programs! For more information about these or any other UREC programs, please contact Katie Helms at 575-4684 or khelms@uark.edu.